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I always try to create a classroom environment that provides different areas where students feel invited to explore and learn. Students love to spend time in the Art Area, the Kitchen, the Library, and at the Loose Parts Table where materials are provided for students to use to play with and perhaps develop their stories. Last year I discovered, much to my chagrin, that the "Construction Corner" consisting of wood blocks was more popular with my boys, and that the majority of my girls did not take advantage of playing in that area. Was it because they did not feel comfortable going to that corner? Was there an implicit message that it was a "boys' only" area? I have always been an outspoken advocate for gender equality, taking advantage of my teaching this to my students at such a young age. As such, I always try my best to attempt to "level" the playing areas and make them appealing to all genders. This is my motivation going into this next school year. I am hoping that by introducing these new, appealing Building Materials, and converting my "Construction Corner" into a STEM Area of the classroom, I will provide an invitation for all genders to become engaged in exploring, experimenting, and learning through building and all that it entails. Maria Montessori once said, "The role of education is to interest the child profoundly in an external activity to which he will give all of his potential." I am hoping to profoundly interest all children--boys, girls and non-gendered--providing external activities to which all of them will give all of their potential.
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